The South County History Center is operated by a team of dedicated staff, Trustees, volunteers and interns.

Erica Luke, Executive Director

Erica became the Center's Executive Director in 2014. A native of Wilmington, Delaware, Erica has more than a decade of experience in museums and other educational institutions, including the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and the Newseum.

Erica earned an M.A. in Museum Studies from George Washington University and a B.A. in History with Distinction from the University of Delaware. She and her husband Robert live in Greene, RI.

Ryan Saglio, Assistant Director

Ryan Saglio is a native Rhode Islander and is expected to complete her Master’s Degree in Public Humanities from Brown University in May 2019. Prior to that, she graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 2015 with degrees in English and Art History. Ryan’s past work in museums and non-profits include education, programming, community partnerships, exhibition design and interpretation. Much of her work focuses on accessible, inclusive, and equitable experiences for all. Ryan lives in Pawtucket with her boyfriend and two cats.

Alicia Vaandering, Special Projects Manager

Alicia has served the Center since 2014, as a volunteer, Collections Manager and and presently as our Special Projects Manager. A graduate of Willamette University and native of Oregon, Alicia moved to the East Coast to pursue an M.A. in History and a Master's Library and Information Studies at the University of Rhode Island. In January 2018, she joined Salve Regina University as its Educational and Instruction Design Librarian.